FIFA investigating Henry's handball

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- French soccer player Thierry Henry is being investigated by FIFA for his handball that led to France advancing to the 2010 World Cup over Ireland.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter said Wednesday that an investigation by the federation's disciplinary committee could lead to a one-match suspension, possibly forcing Henry to miss France's World Cup opener in June.

"I have not said that Thierry Henry will be punished, I have said that Thierry Henry will be examined by the disciplinary committee of FIFA," Blatter said Wednesday at a news conference ahead of the formal draw for groups for the World Cup.

After the match, Henry admitted he hit the ball with his hand, a redirection that set up a goal by Williams Gallas' in extra time. That allowed France to tie Ireland 1-1 in the match and advance to the World Cup on a 2-1 aggregate score of two games with Ireland. However, the game official didn't call the infraction and the score was allowed to stand.

Ireland's requests that the match be replayed or that the team be given a place in an expanded World Cup field were denied.

No timetable was announced for FIFA's disciplinary committee to meet regarding Henry.